2GB cuts ties with Chris Smith following Christmas party behaviour

Nine Radio’s 2GB has officially terminated services with Chris Smith following alleged inappropriate behaviour at the Sky News Christmas party last week.

Smith was suspended immediately last weekend from 2GB as Sky News Australia launched an investigation into his alleged misconduct towards women at the after-party.

Chris Smith

2GB said while Smith apologised “profusely” for his “drunken treatment” of women, and conceded his behaviour was unacceptable, the radio station will no longer work with him.

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Smith was the go-to fill-in for Ben Fordham, who’s actually on leave as of this week, but the station’s Nights host John Stanley stepped up instead.

In the latest GFK radio rating survey released today, 2GB led the weekend slot with a 12.3% share, where Smith’s show was broadcasted from 9am to 1pm.

Nine’s managing director of radio, Tom Malone said: “Chris’ behaviour represents a serious breach of his contract, and is not aligned with the values of 2GB.”

Nine said it has provided support to Chris in recent days and will continue to offer that support as required.

Sky News said on Monday that it wasn’t making further comments while the investigation into the incident is being carried out. The network also suspended Smith over the weekend.

“The person involved has been suspended while an investigation into the allegations is undertaken,” a spokesperson said.

“The welfare of our staff is our absolute priority. We have a zero-tolerance approach to inappropriate conduct and take these allegations very seriously.”